10 Movies and Shows Like Friends (1994)

Description: As Friends' immediate predecessor in the NBC 'Must See TV' lineup, Seinfeld established many sitcom conventions that Friends would later use. Both shows focus on a group of friends in New York navigating dating and everyday life, though Seinfeld is more cynical and observational while Friends is more romantic and sentimental. The Central Perk coffee shop was likely inspired by Seinfeld's Monk's Cafe.

Fact: The 'show about nothing' description came from a pitch meeting where Jerry Seinfeld struggled to explain the concept. Kramer's entrance through Jerry's door was based on a real neighbor Larry David had. The famous 'Soup Nazi' was based on a real New York soup vendor.

Description: That '70s Show shares with Friends its focus on a tight-knit group of friends navigating young adulthood, though set in the 1970s rather than the 1990s. Both shows feature will-they-won't-they romantic pairings (Eric and Donna mirroring Ross and Rachel) and derive humor from the characters' relationships and misadventures. The basement hangout scenes serve a similar function to Friends' Central Perk scenes.

Fact: Ashton Kutcher was discovered while modeling in a mall. The famous circle scenes were inspired by the creators' own experiences getting high with friends. Danny Masterson (Hyde) and Laura Prepon (Donna) are the only cast members who actually lived through the 1970s.

Description: While set in a hospital, Scrubs shares with Friends a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, plus a strong focus on friendship. Created by Bill Lawrence (who worked on Friends), the show features a central will-they-won't-they couple (JD and Elliot) reminiscent of Ross and Rachel. The fantasy sequences add a unique element, but the core friendship dynamics are similar to Friends.

Fact: Many medical scenes were reviewed by real doctors for accuracy. The Janitor character wasn't supposed to be a regular until Neil Flynn's improvisations impressed the creators. Zach Braff directed several episodes and chose much of the show's indie rock soundtrack.

Description: Like Friends, The Big Bang Theory is a sitcom that revolves around a close-knit group of friends navigating life, relationships, and careers. Both shows emphasize humor derived from interpersonal dynamics and everyday situations, though The Big Bang Theory adds a layer of geek culture and science humor. The ensemble cast and recurring romantic subplots are also reminiscent of Friends.

Fact: The show was originally pitched as 'a show about smart people that even dumb people would watch.' The apartment sets of The Big Bang Theory and Friends were both filmed on the same Warner Bros. soundstage. Jim Parsons (Sheldon) initially auditioned for the role of Leonard.

Description: Parks and Rec shares with Friends an optimistic tone and focus on character relationships, though in a workplace setting. Both shows feature memorable, quirky characters who grow over time, with strong friendships at the core. The mockumentary style differs from Friends, but the emphasis on humor derived from personality clashes and romantic entanglements is similar.

Fact: The show was originally conceived as a spin-off of The Office. Chris Pratt gained 60 pounds for his role in Moneyball during a Parks and Rec hiatus, then had to quickly lose it to return. The character of Ben Wyatt was only supposed to appear in a few episodes but became a series regular due to fan response.

Description: Created by Friends' Bill Lawrence, Cougar Town shares that show's emphasis on friendship and humor, though focusing on a slightly older demographic. The show evolved from its initial premise to become more about the 'cul-de-sac crew' friend group, much like Friends' focus on its core six. The wine-fueled hangouts replace Central Perk, but serve a similar narrative function.

Fact: The show's title became increasingly irrelevant as it focused more on friendship than dating. Courteney Cox's real-life husband David Arquette appeared in several episodes. The show frequently referenced and parodied its own title in humorous ways.

Description: Modern Family shares Friends' blend of humor and heart, though it expands the focus to multiple interconnected families. Both shows use a mix of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and relatable family/relationship situations. The mockumentary format differs, but the emphasis on ensemble chemistry and multi-generational appeal is similar to Friends' broad popularity.

Fact: The show was inspired by co-creator Christopher Lloyd's large, blended family. Sofia Vergara's accent was initially considered too strong for TV, but became one of her character's defining traits. The show used three different houses for exterior shots throughout its run.

Description: Happy Endings is often described as a spiritual successor to Friends, featuring a group of six friends in Chicago navigating relationships and careers. The show shares Friends' rapid-fire dialogue, romantic entanglements within the group, and emphasis on friendship dynamics. The character types (including a Monica-like obsessive planner and a Joey-like lovable goof) are somewhat analogous to Friends' ensemble.

Fact: The show was nearly canceled after its first season but was saved by fan campaigns. Eliza Coupe (Jane) and Damon Wayans Jr. (Brad) previously worked together on Scrubs. The show's cancellation after three seasons led to widespread fan disappointment.

Description: New Girl shares with Friends the premise of a group of friends living together and supporting each other through life's ups and downs. The show features a similar mix of humor, heart, and romantic entanglements, with a quirky lead character (Jess) who brings the group together, much like Rachel in Friends. The loft setting and group dynamic are strongly reminiscent of Friends' Central Perk hangouts.

Fact: Zooey Deschanel was pregnant during season 3, which was written into the show. The show was originally titled 'Chicks and Dicks.' Prince appeared in a memorable season 3 episode and improvised most of his lines.

Description: While set in a police precinct rather than among friends, Brooklyn Nine-Nine shares Friends' emphasis on workplace-as-family dynamics and rapid-fire humor. The show's balance of comedy with heartfelt moments, plus its will-they-won't-they romantic subplot (Jake and Amy), mirrors similar elements in Friends. The ensemble cast chemistry is equally strong in both series.

Fact: Andy Samberg based his character's voice on a combination of John McClane and Han Solo. The show was canceled by Fox after 5 seasons but revived by NBC due to fan outcry. Andre Braugher (Captain Holt) improvised many of his deadpan lines.